Crackdown gets results

Over 50 arrests in Lara since start of anti-crime operation

POLICE have made more than 50 arrests during a Lara crime crackdown.

Officers have zeroed in on vandalism, public nuisance and theft offences related to a number of young people congregating in public spaces, including the town’s troubled skate park.

Geelong Inspector Shane Madigan said the operation had led to a significant drop in anti-social behaviour in the area with a number of people arrested, charged and set to go before the court.

“Police, traders and community are telling us that things have improved in the area and even though large numbers are still attending the skate park there is a much better sense of community and perception of safety in the area,” Inspector Madigan said.

Latest Crime Statistics Agency data, which does not include the period targeted by the operation, showed 1227 offences were recorded in Lara from March 2017-18 — a nearly 30 per cent increase on the previous reporting period.

City of Greater Geelong Lara region Councillor Kylie Grzybek said police, councillors and community members were continuing to work together to combat anti-social behaviour that had previously plagued Austin Park.

“I’m really pleased with the steps we’re taking to address the community’s concerns around anti-social and criminal behaviour in Austin Park, Lara,” Cr Grzybek said.

“A lot of preparatory work has been under way over the past month.

“The city is working closely with a number of stakeholders including Victoria Police on a collaborative approach to respond to issues at hand,” Cr Grzybek said.

“This will work in combination with longer-term strategies to minimise future antisocial and criminal behaviour. We’re looking forward to announcing some positive initiatives shortly that we’re confident will have a positive impact.”

Inspector Madigan said an increase in visible police operations would continue in the Geelong police service area, with officers patrolling train stations and shopping strips.